
Table 1. Results of the Clanoner Rail Nest Census During 1955 


and 1956. 
ho. Observed No. Mstroyed No. Hatched 
Area Nests (By Tides ) Successfully 
1955. 1. 1956 1955 1956 1955 1956 
Coney's 29 20, 9 Mn 20 16 
Keye's ae 10 3 1 h 9 
Total 36 30 12 5 2h 25 
The effects of abnormally high tides on clapper rail nesting 
were not as severe in 1956 as in 1955. [Iiigh tides of June 8-11, 
1955 resulted in virtually complete nest destruction. Consequently, 
a considerable amount of renesting occurred which accounted for the 
later hatching peak (Fig. 1). During 1956, the usually high lunar 
tides were present but only one high tide was accomnanied by strong 
winds. This tide, on May 10, came at a time when rails were just 
commencing to nest, and therefore did not have any harmful effects 
on nesting. Three nests were destroyed with clutches of 1 to 2 
eges, Flood tides, around June 8, 1956, eliminated only 2 (1h per- 
cent) of 14 nests under observation. This tide was undoubtedly 
the cause of the limited amount of renesting. 
On the basis of data gathered from Coney's and Keye's Areas, 
it is presumed that no substantial change took place in the pro- 
duction of the clapper rail. However, during 1956, early nesting 
attempts were much more successful. Tighty-three percent of first 
nests hatched successfully. 
The increase of nests on Keye's Area, and decrease on Coney's 
Area is attributed to nesting cover. Many large barren areas are 
now present on Coney's. These sections formerly supported good 
stands of saltmarsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora). Possibly 
either adverse weather conditions or the overpopulation of fiddler 
crabs contributed to this kill of vegetation. 
Based on the hatching dates and a 60-day interval to flight 
stage, by August 27, approximately 50 percent of the young birds 
should be on the wing. By September 7, or earlier, 80 percent 
will be flight birds. The remaining 2C percent should have com- 
plete flight feathers by September 26, In view of this, the usual 
opening date anpears to be justifiable. 
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